[quote name=\'1978-Jeopardy\' date=\'Jan 31 2004, 11:45 AM\'] Question: Do any of you think it is possible to have a successful network of entirely classic game shows? TV land seems to work entirely on sitcom reruns, so why can't it work for gameshows? If there was a more decent game show rotation (example, one timeslot swapping GO with chain reaction, another swapping treasure hunt and 78 jeopardy, etc...), a stationary afternoon or evening timeslot for longer-lasting, fun to watch shows (family feud and match game), and a two-hour sunday afternoon block of obscure or themed favorites, as on TV land (ex: the pyramids, panel shows) I promise a successful network. [/quote]
Many of us in this community would love it, but realistically it's a tough sell. The password is--demographics (ding!).
Don't forget--GSN once did what you're proposing on their startup (none of which I really got to see, much to my own chagrin). If it made enough bucks for them (and attracted a full cross-section of viewers), they'd still be doing it instead of a combo of library material and newer shows (and occasionally getting away from the genre). Sitcom reruns have the advantage of having been in prime-time (and full national broadcasts--game shows had occasional problems with clearances), and having been syndicated before (meaning they're now proven commodities). Game shows don't have that luxury.
Don't get me wrong--not having had the first four years of GSN has made me long for having a "Classic GSN" channel. But it ain't gonna happen, at least anytime in the foreseeable future.
Doug